• Expat Retirement
• Overseas Retirement Information

Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles" and it's a name that fits the country well. With dazzling beaches, breath-taking mountains, and non-stop city life, there's always something to do and see in this beautiful country.

Some information on climate and weather in Thailand

Recovery after the Tsunami is spotty, especially in the areas hardest hit, but life goes on and there's a strong drive to attract foreign money, your money, so the welcome mat has been rolled out.

Recommendations, experiences and thoughts about living in Thailand

Thai hospitals are first-class and many of the doctors are either Westerners or Western-trained.

If you're thinking about living in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, consider renting one of the unique Lanna Thai style houses which go for about $250 U.S. per month.

You won't spend a lot of money to keep your belly full. In fact, restaurant and street vendor prices are so low that it almost doesn't make any sense to cook your own meals.

When it comes to income taxes, your expat retirement check could shrink a but depending upon your residency status. Here's the info straight from the horse's mouth:

"Taxpayers are classified into resident and non-resident. Resident means any person residing in Thailand for a period or periods aggregating more than 180 days in any tax (calendar) year. A resident of Thailand is liable to pay tax on income from sources in Thailand on a cash basis, regardless where the money is paid, as well as on the portion of income from foreign sources that is brought into Thailand. A non-resident is, however, subject to tax only on income from sources in Thailand."

Retirement visas are available if you satisfy the minimum age and income requirements. Check http://www.thaivisa.com/318.0.html for details.

Thailand is on my Top 2 places to retire in Southeast Asia with Singapore being the other.

Laos for Retirement - Living in Laos
Malaysia for Retirement - Living in Malaysia
New Zealand for Retirement - Living in New Zealand
Philippines for Retirement - Living in Philippines
Singapore for Retirement - Living in Singapore
Thailand for Retirement - Living in Thailand
Vietnam for Retirement - Living in Vietnam